The TechDemoSat-1 mission is focussing on the trial of new space instruments and software. It will allow prototypes of innovative UK technology to be proved in space. The close cooperation between Surrey Satellite Technology (SSTL), providing the satellite platform, UK industry and academia will open up new opportunities and access to substantial international business for the participating companies. The TechDemoSat-1 satellite will carry eight payloads and an enhanced on board computer giving greater ability to conduct software experiments remotely. The project is part-funded through the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) and South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and the UK Space Agency. For TechDemoSat-1 SCISYS, supported by the UK Space Agency, developed and implemented the Mission Planning Software, the flexible in-orbit test bed for UK industry and academia.

The Mission Planning Software (MPS) is one of the most important subsystems for the coordination of the varied on-board instruments. The TechDemoSat-1 MPS also plans the operation of experimental scientific instruments on behalf of users here on earth, the so called Principal Investigators. The MPS integrates with the SSTL mission control system at their operation centre in Surrey, the UK ground stations, and integrates SSTL’s spacecraft power model. It has a re-usable electronic interface for the Principal Investigators to remotely request instrument tasking, and to receive feedback on their requests.

TechDemoSat-1 was launched on 8th July from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

Dr Spencer Ziegler, Business Manager for Space UK, said: “SCISYS is proud to have delivered the MPS to TechDemoSat-1, which is an area where SCISYS is at the forefront of the technology and concepts. The fact our MPS solutions and products are used by customers around the world, as well as in space and non-space domains, demonstrates we are addressing our customer’s key needs. I congratulate the SCISYS team for the great work they did to deliver the MPS and wish TechDemoSat-1 the very best for its launch and mission.”